TRACEY’S PRACTICAL EMPLOYMENT TIP
OF THE MONTH*

During 10+ years as an executive employment attorney, I have listened to hundreds of stories from clients from all parts of the employment spectrum. Over time I began to see certain patterns of behavior on the part of employers and my clients that helped me to formulate some general rules to follow and consider when managing your employment relationship. While these patterns or scenarios do not necessarily give rise to legal claims or infringe upon an employee’s legal rights, had my clients had a bit more practical knowledge about workplace dynamics and employer motivations they may have had an opportunity to obtain an unanticipated benefit, limit damage to their career or avoid a difficult interpersonal situation. Therefore, in an effort to educate executives and employees on how to respond to certain common employment circumstances I thought it would be helpful at the beginning of each month to provide those of you who visit this web site with a practical pointer on managing your employment relationship.*

JULY 2010: DON’T WAIT TO START LOOKING FOR A JOB*

If you are unhappy at your job or sense that you might be let go do not wait to look for a job. It amazes me how many of my severance clients tell me during the consultation that they have been unhappy for a long period of time or had a feeling they might lose their position but had not even updated their resume. There is no harm in looking for another job, even if you are happy where you are and feel secure in your position.

First, going on a few interviews will force you to keep your resume updated, keep your interview skills sharp and help your self-esteem. Second, meeting with prospective employers will give you a betters sense of your self worth and, particularly if you are unhappy, open your eyes to the fact that there are other opportunities out there that might be better suited to your needs. Third, your ability to advance is greater through an external move. Fourth, given the current state of the employment market you will give yourself a heads start in replacing your income and job in the event you are unexpectedly let go. Fifth, there is no loyalty in employment and there is no harm in keeping your options as well.

Next Month's Tip: A MESSAGE FOR EXECUTIVE RECRUITERS

Monthly Tip Archive

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* Disclaimer: The contents of this page are for informational purposes only and nothing herein is intended to constitute legal advice nor should anything contained herein be taken or relied on as such. Each individual executive and employee has a unique set of facts and circumstances that the general discussion set forth above may be wholly inapplicable to. Only through consultation with a lawyer from our firm in which all of the facts and circumstances of an individual’s unique situation are explored and considered can a true legal assessment of your rights and remedies be ascertained. Any use of this information is taken solely at your own risk.